For some reason I never thought I would have to answer the question, “What is natural hair?”

But since I will be answering questions bi-weekly about natural hair, I will take this moment to clarify the term.

I was shocked that many of the people who emailed me with questions about natural hair were men. Some said they thought the phrase referred to women who don’t wear weaves and wigs, which it not true.

Natural hair (regardless of texture) is non-process, chemically free hair.
This means no hair coloring, no perms of any kind, no texturizers (which is a relaxer) and no anti-frizz Brazilian treatments. It is hair void of any of these chemicals.

Products such as shampoos, conditioners, hair serum, mouse, oils, hydration creams, etc., are fine because they are considered styling aids and are easily washed away.

Although many individuals wear their hair natural, they still may color – a technical violation of the term. But in the world of natural hair, some consider coloring an act of self-expression. Others use color to cover gray. For these reasons, I use color in my salon.

Another misconception of natural hair is that it’s all about locks and braids. Nope, natural hair can be twisted, blow-dried straight, have a rod set or put in natural updo styles.

And yes, some natural women chose to wear weaves and wigs. This just gives women an option in styling and changing their hair color from time to time.

We are limited only by our imaginations when it comes to natural hair. So think outside the box and have fun with it, because your tress should be an expression of your spirit.
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Yesenia Hernandez is owner of Senkay Natural Hair Studio LLC (www.senkayhair.com) in Charlotte. Phone: 704-608-6775. Email questions to Senkayhair@gmail.com
 

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